As year 2023 came to an end, South Africa's foreign policy exhibited perplexing inconsistencies, raising serious questions about its leadership and commitment to its stated values. Two recent cases exemplify this troubling dissonance: The first is the solo legal pursuit at the ICJ: South Africa's lone action at the International Court of Justice (ICJ) against Israel, accusing the latter of genocide against Palestinians without robust evidence, appears abrupt and undermines its diplomatic credibility. This approach contrasts starkly with the country's stated commitment to multilateralism and evidence-based decision-making. The second is their FDLR Alliance and it is Disturbing Implications: Even more concerning is South Africa's leadership within the Southern African Development Community (SADC) in forming an alliance with the Democratic Forces for the Liberation of Rwanda (FDLR). The FDLR, a rebel group responsible for the Rwandan genocide against the Tutsi, continues to perpetrate violence and displacement in the DRC. This alliance not only contradicts South Africa's earlier intervention against another rebel group in 2012-2013, but also raises serious concerns about its commitment to human rights and preventing genocide. Deeper Concerns: Morality, legitimacy, and commitment This inconsistency sparks suspicions of a hidden agenda, potentially driven by economic interests or regional power dynamics. This shift away from the values championed by Nelson Mandela and the African National Congress (ANC) during the anti-apartheid struggle raises profound questions about the moral compass guiding South Africa's foreign policy. Furthermore, South Africa's alliance with Burundi, seemingly advocating for the majority against the minority, risks overlooking the fundamental rights of impacted groups. Accusations of supporting the disenfranchisement or elimination of specific populations further erode South Africa's international standing and its dedication to the principles of equality and justice. Operating in a context of hate speech and violence It is crucial to acknowledge the dangerous environment in which South Africa operates within the DRC. Hate speech, xenophobia, and incitement to violence targeting Tutsis and individuals of Rwandan descent are public and prevalent. This context necessitates heightened vigilance and a commitment to upholding human rights, even in the face of complex regional dynamics. Beyond accusations: Addressing the root causes South Africa's current partnership with the DRC government raises profound concerns. This government has not only collaborated with a genocidal group (FDLR) but also has a troubling record of human rights abuses, including fostering hate speech and failing to prosecute perpetrators of violence against Tutsis. By supporting such a government, South Africa risks not only undermining its own principles but also potentially contributing to the very human rights violations it condemns elsewhere. South Africa's accusations against Israel, while lacking strong evidence, are dwarfed by the reality of its actions in the DRC. While Israel can argue self-defence, South Africa cannot claim the same when supporting a government and military with a documented history of collaboration with a genocidal force and a propensity for its own human rights violations. Engaged in a military fight against a group fighting in self-defence. The way forward: A critical re-examination The glaring inconsistencies in South Africa's foreign policy necessitate a critical revaluation of its motivations and priorities. Upholding human rights, promoting international cooperation, and aligning its actions with its stated values are crucial for South Africa to regain its standing as a champion of justice and equality.
